Moving to Toronto

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Moving to a new country is a complex process with many steps. Use these useful resources to learn more about the immigration process and make your transition easier.

Immigration Regulations

Before entering Canada, international students must satisfy certain immigration requirements. You'll need to contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate as soon as you receive your offer of admission from the Rotman School. Check out this list of Canadian offices around the world to contact for help.

To qualify for an entry visa and student authorization, you'll need to show evidence of adequate funds and proof of medical clearance. You'll also need a study permit to study in Canada. Information on how and where to apply can be found at Citizenship and Immigration Canada. If your spouse or common-law partner wants to work in Canada, you can find information about the eligibility requirements, validity and application process at Studying in Canada: Work Permits for Students.

"The city of Toronto is amazing, a welcoming and diverse community, and one of the best places to be in the world."

Getting Started: Top 5 Tips for International Students Coming to Toronto

1. Network, network, network! Before moving to Canada, contact a Rotman Ambassador in your country to learn what to expect from your MBA experience, and use RWorld or the Rotman Facebook page to make friends with other incoming students.

2. Double check your papers to make sure they are in order before you land in Canada. If you’re thinking of applying for Permanent Residency, remember to bring a police clearance certificate from your home country (and the countries you’ve lived in). Carry the original and a copy of all your important documents: your passport, your driver’s license, student visa, etc.

3. Start looking for a place to stay before you arrive (see Top 5 Tips for Finding a Place to Stay in Toronto). You can use the Internet to find new housing, but also plan to visit your apartment, house, or condo before signing a lease to make sure it is up to your standards and in a convenient location.

4. Give yourself time to settle in. Arrive at least a month before classes – by the middle of August at the latest – to open a bank account, find a cell phone and Internet provider, buy a metro pass for public transit, and accomplish all the many other tasks that you need to start your life in Toronto.

5. Go easy on yourself. Moving abroad can be difficult, especially when you are also trying to manage a full-time course load, deal with financial issues, and find your way around an unfamiliar city. But with the help of your classmates and your newly-earned time management skills, you’ll land back on your feet and feel at home in no time.

Bonus tip: Don’t bother packing winter clothes – buy them here! Unless you’re coming from a country with cold winters, your clothes may not be warm enough once January arrives.